AstaReal launches astaxanthin for European pet and feed market

Photo from AstaReal

AstaReal AB (Nacka, Sweden) is introducing its natural astaxanthin to the European pet food and animal feed markets. The ingredient will be marketed under the name Novasta and will create antioxidant-rich products for a range of animals.

AstaReal’s astaxanthin is derived from the microalgae species Haematococcus pluvialis and is plentiful not only in natural astaxanthin but also additional carotenoids, proteins, carbohydrates, and essential fatty acids. Studies show it can support the health of muscles, eyes, brain, and immune system, and therefore can benefit not only pets but also competitive-sport animals. “As it is suitable for all animals, including pets and those in competitive sport, agriculture, and aquaculture, the market opportunities for Novasta are vast,” the company says in a press release.

In pets, Novasta can support mobility, endurance, muscle health, attentiveness, weight management, and eye health. “In studies,the addition of astaxanthin formulations to dogs’ diets has been shown to increase antioxidant activity and liver function as a result of improved lipid metabolism, and enhance shininess and overall quality of dog fur in just six weeks,” the company says.

In horses, Novasta astaxanthin can support exercise-induced muscle damage resulting from dressage or high-performance racing.

It also has applications for farmers for their cattle, pigs, sheep, poultry, and other livestock. “Novasta supports productivity in agriculture by encouraging improved fertility, better growth during suckling, more successfully hatched chicks, and stronger immune defense for overall health,” the company says.

In fish and crustaceans, Novasta can ensure optimal growth, health, and pigmentation, and allow aquaculturists to user fewer fish-based products.

The firm says: “Microalgae-derived astaxanthin represents a sustainable and naturally sourced feed ingredient with excellent eco credentials. In addition, it is easy to combine with other nutrients for a wide array of innovative animal products such as dry and wet food, powder mixes, extruded snacks, soft chews, flakes, tablets, softgel capsules and liquid solutions.”